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17419 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023-2730
Phone: 440-543-9677 Fax: 440-543-8634

December 22, 2025

Dear Kenston Community,

As we reach the conclusion of the first semester of the school year, I want to share how incredibly proud I am of our students and all that they have accomplished. Over the past months, our students have demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and a genuine commitment to learning, both inside and outside of the classroom.

From academic achievements and artistic performances to athletic successes and acts of leadership and service, our students continue to represent Kenston with pride. Their hard work and determination, supported by our outstanding staff and engaged families, are truly inspiring.

I am also grateful for the educators and staff who provide meaningful, engaging learning experiences each day, and for our parents and community members whose ongoing support plays such an important role in student success. Together, we have created an environment where students are encouraged to grow, challenge themselves, and strive for excellence.

As we begin the holiday break, I encourage everyone to take time to rest, recharge, and celebrate the accomplishments of the semester. While this season is joyful for many, we recognize that it can be challenging for others. Let us continue to support one another with kindness and compassion.

Thank you for all you do to make Kenston a strong and caring community. I wish you and your family a restful and joyful holiday season, and I look forward to building on this momentum in the new year.

Warm regards,

Original artwork by a kindergarten student at Timmons Elementary School.

Dr. Bruce Willingham, Jr.
Superintendent

At the December 15, 2025, Board of Education meeting, Musical Arts Association of Kenston (MAAK) President Suzanne Taber presented the annual MAAK update to the Board.

MAAK is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves as the parent booster group supporting the Kenston High School band, choir, and Bomberette dance programs. The organization raises funds to enrich these programs while helping reduce the District’s financial burden. Through concessions and other fundraising efforts, MAAK works to enhance musical arts opportunities at Kenston and also provides scholarships and recognition for graduating seniors.

Currently, MAAK supports 102 students participating in choir, chorale, and vocal jazz, 167 students involved in marching band, jazz band, flute choir, concert band, and symphonic band, and 17 students in the Bomberette dance program.

Recent MAAK expenditures include five senior scholarships of $750 each, to be presented in May 2025; the purchase of four Conn double French horns ($17,000); four Jupiter baritones ($6,000); a trailer for band equipment; and T-shirts for the band’s Spring Break Disney trip.

During the fall, yard signs were offered for purchase, and poinsettias are once again being sold to help decorate the holiday stage. While these initiatives are not primary fundraisers, they do generate modest revenue. MAAK’s primary source of funding comes from stadium concessions, where volunteers provide a variety of food and beverage options for visitors attending Kenston athletic events.

Those interested in joining MAAK or with questions are encouraged to contact maak@kenstonapps.org.

The annual Holiday Concerts were once again spectacular this year, with students from 4th through 12th grade showcasing their musical talents. For those who were unable to attend, recordings of the concerts are available via the links below.

At the December 15, 2025, Board of Education meeting, Kenston High School Athletic Director Reid Guarnieri, J.D., shared an update with the Board and community highlighting athletic achievements from the fall Middle School and High School sports seasons. Mr. Guarnieri also introduced the new athletic website for Kenston Middle School and Kenston High School.

The 2025 fall season reflects the hard work, dedication, and talent of Kenston student-athletes and coaches, both on the field and in the classroom. We are proud of these accomplishments and look forward to continued success during the winter and spring athletic seasons.

The fall sports season at Kenston Middle School showcased strong performances and championship-level efforts from our student-athletes.

The 2025 fall athletics season was full of accomplishments for Kenston High School, highlighted by championships, individual honors, and outstanding scholar-athlete recognition.

Our student-athletes delivered an outstanding year, earning 124 WRC Scholar-Athlete honors, 41 All-Conference selections, and producing 3 All-Ohioans and 3 WRC Players of the Year. The program also celebrated 4 WRC Champions, 2 District Championships, and 1 Regional Championship, while 4 Coaches of the Year honors highlighted the leadership behind the success. Off the field, the achievements continued with two college signees, showcasing both athletic excellence and academic commitment.

Kenston Local Schools is pleased to host the 60th annual Kenston Invitational Tournament (KIT), a major high school wrestling event.

This year's tournament will feature 30 teams competing over two days on December 29 and 30, at Kenston High School, located at 9500 Bainbridge Road.

For detailed tournament information, schedules, and updates, please visit the Kenston Athletics KIT Wrestling Webpage. If you have additional questions, contact Kenston High School Athletics at 440-543-9821.

As winter has officially arrived, please note that the Kenston Stadium (including the track) and Tennis Courts are closed for the season. The hazards of winter weather (including slippery surfaces, strong winds, and cold temperatures) require the facilities to be closed, which will extend their life. The stadium and tennis courts will reopen in the Spring of 2026.

The 1.5-mile Kenston trail is available year-round; however, it is open only during non-school hours and when not in use by a team. This trail provides many opportunities to enjoy nature and exercise, but only during non-school hours. Please also note that dogs are not permitted on the trail or on campus unless they are service dogs.

The Kenston Nutrition Services Department will be adding new menu items after the start of the new year. Students can look forward to additional options and expanded choices designed to support healthy eating and keep meals exciting throughout the school day.

Visit the Kenston Nutrition Services page for menus, payment methods, and more.  

As we welcome new students in the New Year, we encourage all families to check Infinite Campus (IC) for any updated bus times. Bus routes and pick-up/drop-off times may have changed, and reviewing this information will help ensure a smooth start to each school day.

Thank you for taking a moment to verify your child’s transportation details. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the building office.

Wishing everyone a safe and smooth start to the New Year!

The Kenston High School Boys Basketball team will be hosting a Boys Basketball Alumni Appreciation Game. This special event is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate former players and their contributions to the program. Alumni are invited to attend, reconnect with teammates, and be recognized for their role in building the tradition of Kenston Boys Basketball. 

Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026
Location: Kenston High School Gymnasium
(9500 Bainbridge Road)
Introduction of Alumni: Approximately 6:30 pm

Interested Alumni should email Coach Jakacki (josh.jakacki@kenstonapps.org) by January 2, 2026, to receive a complimentary ticket. 

We look forward to welcoming our alumni back and celebrating the past, present, and future of the program.

Mark your calendar to take a break, support Kenston Schools, and enjoy a fun-filled day at Kalahari! It’s a great opportunity to relax, make memories, and give back to the Kenston community all at the same time.

Reserve your rooms by January 12, 2026, to take advantage of this opportunity.

A 2014 Dodge Caravan is now available for auction on GovDeals! This vehicle is being offered as-is, and bidding will close on January 1, 2026, at 5 pm. Whether you’re looking for a practical vehicle for work or personal use, this is a great opportunity to participate in a public online auction.

View photos, specifications, and bidding information by visiting our GovDeals page here: https://www.govdeals.com/KenstonLS

Organizational Meeting - Monday, January 12, 2026, 6:30 pm
Regular Meeting - Monday, January 12, 2026, 7 pm
Located in the Kenston High School - Auburn Bainbridge Room (9500 Snyder Road)

Agendas/Minutes - Live Stream

Use the search feature in the upper right header. Minutes are available after approval in the following month's agenda.

"Love is prioritizing someone else's needs above your own, because you know in your heart they need you." Mrs. Ballantyne, KMS Staff

Kenston Local Schools
www.kenstonlocal.org
17419 Snyder Road
Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023
Phone: 440-543-9677
Email: kenston@kenstonapps.org